This is a medium-sized tanager that inhabits in northern South America. It is one of the most genetically variable of all tanagers. This tangara has more than 9 subspecies. It is therefore a genetically diverse species and could in the future be separated in more than two species. Its upperparts are green and the underparts blue. The brownish-red head is separated from its green back by a yellow to golden band. The color of the band and of the upper and underparts vary among subspecies. Not a marked dimorphism is observed but females have a duller coloration. Inhabits in humid Andean regions. This a social bird that forages in pairs or in small groups and travel with other flocks. Clutch size is of two eggs. Female builds her nest and incubate eggs for two weeks. It eats mostly fruits and some insects.